Five climbers, including two foreign nationals and three Nepalis, have been rescued after sustaining injuries in an avalanche that struck the Rolwaling mountain range. According to Chief District Officer Narayan Prasad Risal, the rescue was carried out by helicopter from the base camp of Yalung Ri Himal earlier today.
The avalanche hit the climbers’ campsite on Monday morning, where a team of 15 mountaineers, including five foreigners, had pitched their tents while preparing to ascend Dolma Khang and Yalung Ri peaks through two separate travel companies.
Three Confirmed Dead, Seven Still Unaccounted For
CDO Risal confirmed that three climbers, including one foreign national, lost their lives in the avalanche. The identities of the deceased have not been made public yet. Authorities have reported that seven individuals remain missing, with search and rescue efforts currently underway to locate them. Meanwhile, three Nepali guides who survived the avalanche have been moved to Na village, where they are being kept safe and are awaiting evacuation.
Army and Security Forces Join Search Efforts
According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Gyan Kumar Mahato, a joint rescue team comprising personnel from the Nepali Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police has been deployed to Na village to assist in the search operation. Challenging weather conditions and difficult terrain have hindered rescue operations, but authorities remain hopeful that the missing climbers will be located soon.
Authorities Urge Caution in High Himalayan Expeditions
Officials have urged mountaineering groups and expedition agencies to exercise extreme caution during the ongoing climbing season, as early winter snowfall and avalanches have increased risks in high-altitude areas such as Rolwaling. Local authorities are coordinating with rescue agencies and helicopter operators to ensure rapid response and medical evacuation for those still trapped or injured.
